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Learn about the atlatl and archery at Poverty Point

Special to The News-Star
Published 3:01 p.m. CT Aug. 10, 2016

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A Poverty Point World Heritage Site ranger will demonstrate how to throw an atlatl, shown here, and teach visitors about ancient archery from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday.(Photo: The News-Star/File photo)Buy Photo

Learn the basics of spear throwing with an atlatl, as well as primitive archery, at Poverty Point World Heritage Site on Saturday.

A ranger will discuss tips and techniques for using these ancient hunting tools, and participants will have the opportunity to test out their abilities with the atlatl and the bow and arrow. Participants will also gain an understanding of how and why these tools were used by the prehistoric Native Americans who inhabited the Poverty Point site in the distant past.

The program will take place behind the Archaeology Laboratory from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Poverty Point World Heritage Site offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience and learn about the earthworks and those individuals who built them sometime between the 1600 and 1100 BCE. The $4 admission fee provides access to the museum, film theater, hiking trail, driving tour, tram tour, and any interpretive events taking place at the site.

Children (12 and under) and senior citizens (62 and over) are admitted free of charge. Poverty Point is located in West Carroll Parish, east of Monroe on LA 577. The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Poverty Point World Heritage Site(Photo: Courtesy photo)

Want to go?

What: Throwing an atlatl and primitive archery

When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday

Where: Poverty Point World Heritage Site

Cost: $4, Children (12 and under) and senior citizens (62 and over) are admitted free of charge.